Illustration of a person reading in a serene library, representing a calm and reflective environment at Blue Oak Therapy Center in Berkeley.

FAQ

Questions are important

If you have more, just ask.

  • Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) are relationship specialists who are trained to work with individuals, couples, families and groups to help them achieve more adequate, satisfying and productive marriage, family and social functioning. The practice can include: individual counseling, couples counseling, child and adolescent counseling, family counseling, divorce or separation counseling, and other relationship counseling. Marriage and Family Therapists are psychotherapists and healing arts practitioners licensed by the State of California. Requirements for licensure include a related doctoral or master’s degree, passage of two comprehensive written examinations, and at least 3,000 hours of supervised experience.

  • All of our therapists are Associates (also called pre-licensed therapists). A registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) has completed the related doctoral or master’s degree, is registered with the State of California and is working toward completion of the 3,000 hours by practicing psychotherapy under the supervision of a licensed clinician (LMFT, LCSW, Clinical Psychologist).

  • A holistic approach to psychotherapy focuses on the whole person, rather than just the mental/emotional aspects. It emphasizes the functional relationship between a person’s physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects, as well as social, cultural and environmental factors, in order to help you come into balance and harmony, personally and in relationships, in your own, unique way.

  • At Blue Oak Therapy Center, we work with individuals, children, teens, parents, couples and families of all cultural backgrounds, gender orientations and relationship configurations. Read more about the types of therapy we offer and how they work here.

  • No. You may continue working with your therapist after s/he becomes licensed and makes the transition to private practice.

  • The fees for our psychotherapy services are based on a sliding scale, based on gross family income. We do our best to accommodate you with a fee that fits your means and our fee policy.

    Blue Oak Therapy Center does not currently accept insurance. We can provide superbills (monthly statements that can be submitted to your insurance provider) for partial reimbursement. Please contact your insurance provider directly to find out if you are eligible for reimbursement for out-of-network providers with associate credentials (ACSWs, AMFTs, APCCs).

  • Therapy varies considerably depending on your needs. There’s no required length of time to be in therapy; this is something you can determine with your therapist. Therapy sessions are typically every week and last 50 minutes. In some situations, in consultation with your therapist, sessions may last longer.

  • Yes! We offer virtual therapy for clients based in California. When you do your intake, mention that you'd like to explore a virtual therapy option.

  • Our goal is to find a great therapist for you. Each of our therapists has a different area of specialization, and our intake form will help match you to the best person for your unique needs and communication style. 

  • Day or evening appointments are available Monday through Friday. Some of our staff also provides psychotherapy services on Saturdays.

More questions? Get in touch.